Video Game Addiction: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

Video games

have become part of the culture of our current society. They are part of our leisure time in a natural way and we can use them through various types of devices, places and ways. This can fill that leisure space and even encourage creativity and in some cases be productive for socializing and learning. However, this is not always the case. There are video games programmed specifically to increase attention and for the user to spend as much time as possible in the game, since it is the source of income for the game, and this can lead to addiction in a very similar way to other types of gambling addiction, such as gambling addiction. Therefore, it is becoming increasingly important to address this growing problem, through prevention and in cases where a problem develops. video game addiction start treatment to regain control of our lives.

What is video game addiction?

Video game addiction, also known as gaming disorder, has been recognized as a mental health problem by the World Health Organization since 2018 (ICD). This disorder is characterized by a pattern of persistent or recurrent gaming behavior that manifests itself in:

• Lack of control over gambling : Inability to limit time spent gambling.
• Increasing priority of play over other activities : Play takes precedence over daily interests and responsibilities.
• Continuation of gambling despite negative consequences : Persistence in gambling even when it causes problems in important areas of life.

This recognition underscores the need to develop diagnostic and treatment strategies to effectively address this disorder.

Why are video games so addictive?

Modern video games are designed to capture and maintain the player’s attention through various psychological strategies, such as:

• Variable reinforcements : Random rewards that build expectations and maintain player interest.
• Immediacy and accessibility : The ability to play anytime, anywhere, especially with mobile devices, facilitates extended gaming sessions.
• Constant Notifications : Alerts and reminders that encourage the player to return to the game.
• Social competition and validation : Rankings and achievements that foster competitiveness and the desire for social recognition.

These and other tactics can influence the brain’s reward system, promoting repetitive and potentially addictive behaviors. Our brain will start to demand the game and stop prioritizing other types of activities in our lives. In addition, this lack of control influences our emotional state by having a belief about the game that is distorted from reality.

Symptoms of video game addiction

As with any other addiction, it is primarily understood as such when it affects other personal activities. Signs of a possible video game addiction include:

• Loss of control : Difficulty reducing or controlling playing time.
• Lack of interest in other activities : Negligence of academic, work or social responsibilities.
• Irritability or anxiety : Significant discomfort when unable to play.
• Need to increase playing time : Progressive increase in the time spent playing to obtain the same satisfaction.
• Persistence in gambling despite negative consequences : Continuation of gambling despite obvious problems in various areas of life.

Risk factors

Although video game addiction can affect people of all ages, certain groups may be more susceptible, such as teenagers and young adults. The person’s context will be decisive in the development of the disorder. Factors such as low self-esteem, emotional problems and seeking refuge in video games can increase the risk of developing an addiction. In addition, social and cultural influences, as well as a genetic predisposition, can play a significant role. It is important to learn to differentiate between what is a correct use of video games and what is an abuse that can develop a problem.

Consequences of video game addiction

Excessive use of video games can have various repercussions, very similar to those that affect people with addiction problems, including substance abuse, including:

• Mental health problems : Increased symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Social isolation : Reduction in social interactions and in-person activities.
• Physical problems : Changes in sleep patterns and sedentary lifestyle.
• Poor academic or work performance : Decreased performance due to distraction and lack of concentration.

Treatment for video game addiction

Addressing video game addiction requires a multidisciplinary approach and must be done on an individual basis and depending on the context, so it is important to go to professionals in the field. We can highlight some types of treatment:

1. Cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy : Therapy focused on modifying thought and behavior patterns related to gambling.
2. Family Therapy : Involving the family to provide support and set healthy boundaries.
3. Digital detox : Implementing periods without access to gaming devices to reduce dependency.
4. Education and awareness : Inform about the risks associated with excessive use of video games and promote healthy habits.
5. Development of social and emotional skills : Promote activities that improve social interaction and emotional management.

Prevention and recommendations for parents

To prevent video game addiction, especially in young people, the following strategies are suggested:

• Set clear boundaries : Define and monitor play time and schedules.
• Parental Control and Supervision : Monitor gaming content and online behavior.
• Encourage alternative activities : Encourage participation in sports, reading and other recreational activities.
• Education on responsible use of technology : Teaching young people to balance time spent playing video games with other responsibilities and activities.

Video game addiction is a growing concern in today’s society. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking professional help are key steps in addressing this disorder. Collaboration between health professionals, educators, and families is essential to effectively prevent and treat video game addiction.

References

• Corbí Santamaría, M., Ortega Sánchez, D., & Aguiló Pons, A. (2023). Video game addiction in the adult population: a systematic review of the scientific evidence . Retrieved from Dialnet
• Pérez-Marco, E., Carbonell, X., & Oberst, U. (2022). Problematic Video Game Use in Adolescents and its Association with Health-Related Quality of Life: A Longitudinal Study . Journal of Behavioral Addictions , 11(1), 95-105. https://doi.org/10.1556/2006.2022.00009
• World Health Organization. (2018). Gaming disorder . In International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) . Recovered from https://icd.who.int/